Two Iranian women footballers have begun training with Australian club Brisbane Roar after seeking asylum in Australia during the Women's Asian Cup. Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh are the only two of seven delegation members who chose to remain in the country after being labelled 'traitors' at home for refusing to sing the national anthem.

The players are being housed at a secure location and are receiving support from the Australian government and the local Iranian community. Brisbane Roar said it welcomed the athletes to train with its women's squad and pledged to provide a supportive environment as they consider their next steps.

Pasandideh shared a photo alongside a senior official from football's world governing body, writing 'Everything will be fine.' The situation comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and follows accusations from rights groups that Iranian authorities pressure athletes abroad, claims Tehran denies while accusing Australia of influencing the players' decision to stay.